The Temptations have been giving us music that has transcends decades and generations. Their story if one of inspiration, triumph, and sadness. Ain’t too proud is one to see and is happening at the Ensemble Arts Philly until January 21st.
Before you go see Ain’t too Proud
This show is recommended for ages 13 and up according to the Ensemble Arts Philly website. I honestly think that is an appropriate age. If you have seen the movie the show tracks most of it. There is less detail in some of the events. However there is strong adult language and brief violence. The show is about 2.5 hours with an intermission. The city is buzzing about the show so I would secure your tickets as soon as possible. In addition the seating is a little tight. I preface that because that’s all I heard on media night.
So many people were taken back by the seats. If you’re able to check your coat I would highly suggest that you do so. Get there in enough time to park, grab a cocktail and snack and get comfortable. Although not mandatory I would suggest you bring a mask. The amount of people who are venturing out sick has increased.
The shows performances
The actors and actresses are sanging. In my family we don’t say you are singing when you are exemplary we say sanging. The notes, key changes, choreography and more are outstanding. You will be dancing and moving in your seats. The seating is good all around but you know if you want to be close to the stage get those tickets earlier. The only issue and I’m sure it will be corrected was the mics weren’t as loud as they could have been. One of my media friends said something to sound and they immediately corrected it.
No secondary parts
Usually there are supporting actors or actresses. I want to remind that no matter if their part is seen as small or large this show’s success is based on collaboration. Even what would be considered supporting roles were giants in their own rights. Some amazing break out stars were present. The entire cast is A1!
If you know you know
While in the audience a woman who was about in her 60-70s asked me and my husband if we knew the music. Yes I’m 42 but let’s keep in mind I’ve grown up around musical family. My mother was in theatre most of her life. My dad plays the drums. While my extended family and I can sing notes around folks with little to no effort. Yes I’ve been influenced by the sounds of The Temptations. Regardless of age there are so many amazing take aways. When their songs wasn’t charting they kept singing. The amount of work they were willing to do and did is the reason that their music has outlived many of the original members.
In a world of TikTok and faded music especially good music lives on. I was impressed with the way Ain’t too Proud showcased their story. Not only has I seen the movie but as a kid I would sit and listen to my grandfather describe them in detail.
What Range in Ain’t Too Proud?
This is a mostly musical performance while using storytelling to tell of the highs and lows of The Temptations. What I appreciated was the way in which the cast sang their own music. There’s no tracks being used. The live band and the musical chops of The Temptations are real on stage. It was by far one heck of a way to start off theatre for 2024. This is one of those shows that if you miss it you will be disappointed in yourself. In addition the way that the Ensemble Arts Philly turned the stage into a music sanctuary was no easy task. Special shout out to the production staff.
Conversations with Toi
I had the honor of interviewing E. Clayton Cornelious who plays Paul Williams in the story. I was blown away by his acting and singing ability. We talked about the preparation it took to get into character for Ain’t too Proud. As always we talked about the self care it takes to be on tour for such a show. Listen one thing I know about those who grew up during the rise of The Temptations is that that crowd is harder to please. However all walks of life, every age range, and more united over music. Music has a way of bringing the world together and that is one experience that you will witness at Ain’t Too Proud.
I would like to thank Carole Morganti of CJM Public Relations as well as Bryan Buttler Media Relations for having me. Thanks to the Ensemble Arts Philly and Allied Global Marketing. There is swag to grab while there to celebrate your experience. Make sure you grab them too! Remember the show is happening now until January 21st. Tickets are available!
